Church sends best wishes as 146 million Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan in Bangladesh
The celebrations began with people praying in mosques and continued with visits to relatives, a special meal and offerings to the poor. A meal is offered to the poor in hospitals, orphanages, and homes for the disabled. The bishop of Sylhet cites the declaration on human brotherhood as an example of solidarity among religious groups.
Dhaka (AsiaNews) – On the day when 146 million Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr in Bangladesh, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Catholics pay tribute to their Muslim brothers.
Mgr Bejoy N. D’Cruze, bishop of Sylhet and president of the Episcopal Commission for Christian Unity and Interreligious Dialogue, issued a message for the occasion.
“Eid is Muslims’ most important and delightful religious festival. On this day, I greet all Muslim brothers and sisters on behalf of Bangladesh’s Catholic Church,” said the prelate. The event “transforms the life of Muslims through fasting and giving to the needy.”
Today, throughout the country, Muslims went to mosques and prayed for a peaceful and prosperous country and for the well-being of the nation. The whole day is dedicated to celebrating, which took place yesterday in other Islamic countries.
After the prayer, the festivities continue with the exchange of greetings, visits to relatives, a special dinner and offers to the less well off. Hospitals, prisons, orphanages, homes for the disabled and welfare facilities offer a meal prepared especially for the occasion.
“Today I prayed to Allah for the good health of my children. I thanked him for my life. I also prayed for peace and prosperity in this country,” said Mahammod Munuriddin, 65.
According to Mgr Bejoy, the Eid-ul-Fitr party, "is significant for various reasons. Holy Ramadan is a month of sacrifice to God. During this month, Muslims lead a life of self-correction, to avoid sin and dishonesty, and receive justice and spiritual life.”
"It is the time when our Muslim brothers and sisters spend the day fasting, praying and giving, while getting God’s mercy. For this reason, after abstaining from food, Eid brings immense joy."
The bishop also mentioned the declaration on ‘Human Brotherhood’ signed in February in Abu Dhabi by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Mohamed Al-Tayyib, at the end of an interfaith meeting.
This, according to Mgr Bejoy, "prioritises solidarity and tolerance, so that we can put into practice wisdom, knowledge, justice and love. Let us open ourselves and welcome others, acknowledge the misunderstandings of the past, end fear and tear down the wall of ignorance."
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